World Charter for Sustainable Tourism of 1995
In April 1995, when tourism was beginning to generate significant socio-economic effects, the sector took a decisive step towards sustainability. On the island of Lanzarote, Spain, the World Conference on Sustainable Tourism took place, a meeting that brought together professionals from the sector from 59 different countries and marked the beginning of a new tourism approach.
As a result of this event, the 1995 World Charter for Sustainable Tourism was born, a key document that would define, for the first time and on a global level, the concept of “Sustainable Tourism”, marking the starting point towards a profound transformation in the way of travelling and managing tourist destinations. This action was supported by UNESCO and the UNWTO, and was shared with the public from its inception, giving legitimacy and reach to the event held in Lanzarote. In addition, it had the participation of local island authorities, representatives of the Government of the Canary Islands, and delegations from international organisations, ensuring institutional and global support for the document.
Among those attending the conference were representatives from various areas: governments and public administrations; international organisations, including the Tourism Authority of Thailand; universities and research centres, such as the University of Derby (United Kingdom); companies from the tourism sector, including Horizontes Hoteles Cuba and Riu Hotels; international consultants and auditors, and environmental organisations such as the European Natural Heritage Fund.
Foundations and Principles of the 1995 Charter
The charter, drafted in 1995, was not only the first to introduce the new term “Sustainable Tourism,” but also provided a clear and concrete guide for the public and private sectors to incorporate sustainability as a cross-cutting theme in their policies, strategies and operations.
In its development, the 1992 Rio Declaration was a key source of inspiration. It contains 18 indispensable principles for sustainable development and the promotion of a tourism model that:
- Protects the environment and biodiversity.
- Respects the culture and the identity of the local communities.
- Guarantees equitable economic benefits.
- Promotes education and awareness of sustainability.
Thus, the Sustainable Tourism Charter of 1995 represented a turning point. For the first time, it was understood that tourism could be not only a source of income, but also a powerful tool to conserve natural and cultural heritage, strengthen local economies and educate millions of tourists on the importance of respect and care for the planet.
On the 30th anniversary of the 1995 Charter, we remember this date not as a goal achieved, but as the beginning of a journey. A path that continues and that, now more than ever, motivates us to reflect on tourism as a driver of change for the environment.